Medical Advisor Dr Max Holsman MBBS FRCOG FRANZCOG has a special interest in osteoporosis, memberships include National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), International Society of Clinical Densitometry (ISCD)

Testers, trained by ABDTC, have nursing, nutrition, or other health professional background

Demographics recommended for test

All men and women aged 50 plus

Any one over age 20 who is concerned about the health of their bones

In Australia 34% of people over age 20 have low bone density

66% of people aged over 50 have poor skeletal health

Men account for 30% of all fractures that occur in people over 50

Cost

Ultrasound bone density test clinics are inexpensive

GP’s do not offer this specialised technology in their rooms

Other option is x-ray DXA bone density test at radiologists, usually costs at least $90
No Medicare rebate for x-ray for patients under 70 (exceptions may apply for those with select other medical conditions that interfere with bone health)